KOTA KINABALU: Datuk Peter Anthony (pic) hopes Sabah Tambadaus’ 3-1 win over over Terengganu II in the Premier League clash at Likas Stadium on Saturday will kick start their campaign this season.

The Sabah Football Association (Safa) acting president said the victory, the first by the team this season was the best present for Safa following recent events.

“The coaches, management and players have proven that we can beat the odds and rise again despite all the challenges and speculations faced by us recently.

“I hope the win will kick start our campaign this season, and the team will strive for more victories in the coming matches.”

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He was pleased with the players’ performance after watching the team’s 2-1 loss against JDT II in the season opener here two weeks ago.

“Our performance especially in the second half showed that the team can play really well. There are of course still some weaknesses that need to be rectified but I am sure they will get better and I hope they can keep their form.

“At the same time, we will continue in our effort to strengthen Safa as an unit and I believe this will lead to a stronger team as well,” he added.

Meanwhile, head coach Jelius Ating was pleased to see the improvement shown by the team with the victory.

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“It was the third match for us tonight following the 2-1 loss to JDT II in the first game and the 3-3 draw with Kelantan in the second, so the win against Terengganu was a clear indication that the team have improved.

“It was a very good performance by the players. I could see that they were hungry to win the game, and I hope the players will maintain their momentum,” he said after the match.

He also said the team will not be affected by the boycott from fans in Sabah’s home matches as they were unhappy over the regulations set by Safa on the display of banners and usage of musical instruments.

“Of course we would like to see more fans coming into the stadium to support us but at the same time we can’t force them if they have decided not to come.

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“Their decision will not affect us much. Our task is to play well and getting the right result and that is what we will focus in training and in matches,” he stressed. - GL Oh